Well, That Stings A Little

When I first gave up drinking, I didn’t share with anyone. For someone who was extremely insecure and relied heavily on alcohol to make it through social settings - I was terrified that I would make things uncomfortable for other people and/or I would simply no longer receive the invites.

If I get sober, I’m going to miss out!

My friends won’t invite me places!

I won’t fit in!

I’m going to lose friends!

Honestly, all of the those fears were somewhat true. I know that’s not what you want to hear if you're thinking about giving up alcohol, but it is, and that’s okay. Hear me out… There have been multiple events that I am about 99.9% positive I was not invited to because I no longer drink. I’m not going to lie, it hurt. The first time, I took it very personal and spiraled into self doubt...

Was it because they were uncomfortable being around someone who is sober?

Was it because they thought I would be uncomfortable being around someone drinking?

Was it because I’m no longer fun?

I have no idea, nor do I care to at this point, but I do know this…

I did not miss out. I love visiting new places, and I love spending time with my friends. But, I no longer want to do either intoxicated. I want to be fully present, and I want to remember it. I can’t be the friend, sister, mother, or wife I want to be when I am intoxicated. Not to mention, other people's actions and decisions are outside my span of control and something I shouldn't spend a moment of time thinking on.

First Vacation Sober (AMAZING TIME)

So, let me ask you this… Who exactly are you trying to fit in with? Do you want to “fit in” with people who can’t have fun or be social unless there is booze involved? Are they truly friends if they are choosing alcohol over time with you? And most importantly…

What do you want in life? Do you want to miss out on living an abundant life full of happiness and success for meaningless drunken moments? Does alcohol play any role in your journey to becoming the best version of yourself?

I think we know the answer here, so listen up! You will only be missing out if you have nothing better to live for. You will only be missing out if you don’t have a reason behind being sober. Change your mindset. What you believe IS your reality. You are not missing out. You are searching for a better and more fulfilling life, and I promise you - you will find it.

Remember - Your happiness and your self worth are stronger than any drink.

PSA: If you have a friend who is in recovery, it is NOT your place to decide whether or not they want to be somewhere unless you know that it is unsafe. If it makes you uncomfortable being around someone who isn’t drinking, you should probably dig a little deeper and determine what role alcohol is playing in your life.